A large area of Narangba East is under interim planning controls, with local officials proposing a 12-month pause on urban development to support the creation of a future employment precinct.
Background to the Planning Proposal
City officials have advanced its long-term investigation into future land uses across Narangba East, an area currently zoned rural residential. The Narangba East Planning Investigation began formally in 2023 following years of earlier planning studies that commenced in 2010.
In December 2024, Phase 1 of the investigation was completed, which outlined a preliminary planning direction. It identified the potential for sections of the 447-hectare Rural Residential Investigation Area to be repurposed for future employment-generating activities, alongside housing and open space.
Proposed TLPI to Delay New Urban Subdivisions
Officials have resolved to request approval from the Queensland State Planning Minister to introduce a Temporary Local Planning Instrument (TLPI) over approximately 365 properties. The TLPI would temporarily suspend new residential subdivisions or other urban development for up to 12 months, without changing current zoning or existing land use rights.
Under this interim measure, property owners can still undertake works consistent with rural residential zoning such as constructing extensions or sheds. However, the owners cannot pursue new subdivision approvals during the TLPI’s term if adopted.
The TLPI is intended to prevent fragmented development that could compromise the ability to implement coordinated planning outcomes in the area. It also gives city officials time to complete Phase 2, which involves more detailed land use and infrastructure planning.
Economic and Planning Rationale
Council cited recent land supply studies that identified a significant shortfall in industrial-zoned land in southern Moreton Bay, with current availability projected to run out by 2031. Narangba East’s proximity to the Bruce Highway, Brisbane Airport, and Port of Brisbane makes it a strategic candidate for future enterprise and employment use.
Economic analysis estimates the proposed precinct could support approximately 10,527 direct and indirect full-time equivalent jobs and contribute over $1.257 billion in added economic value to the region.
According to the Council, development pressure from urban subdivision applications lodged since 2023 posed a risk to the area’s future planning, prompting the need for an urgent TLPI intervention.
Community Concerns Over Lifestyle and Property Impacts
Residents have expressed concern over the proposal’s impact on the rural lifestyle, local amenity, and long-term property values. Around 3,740 homes were notified of the planning investigation via letterbox drops, leading some locals to believe they may eventually be pressured into selling to private developers.
Council has stated that it has no current plans to acquire or resume land for industrial use as part of the proposed TLPI. The TLPI is not expected to significantly affect property values, as it retains the existing rural residential zoning for the duration of its term.
Council and State Government Planning Framework
Local official Peter Flannery said the proposed 12-month timeframe was chosen to give certainty to landowners, developers, and the broader community, while enabling expedited planning.
Another local official, Jodie Shipway, noted that Narangba East is one of the few areas within the city that can help meet the State-mandated target of creating 85,400 new jobs and accommodating 125,800 additional homes by 2046.
Previous assessments, such as the 2024 Urban Areas Employment Lands Investigation, identified Narangba East as capable of delivering a substantial share of new employment land and supporting broader economic outcomes.
Next Steps and Consultation Timeline
If approved by the State Planning Minister, the TLPI will remain in effect for 12 months. During this time, Council will advance Phase 2 of the Narangba East Planning Investigation, including further infrastructure studies and a formal Integrated Structure Plan. Public consultation will occur as part of the planning scheme amendment process in Phase 3.
The proposed TLPI cannot be viewed publicly until approved by the Minister. If endorsed, Council will publish details and provide guidance for affected property owners.
For updates, residents can access the “Your Say Moreton Bay” project page.
Published 19-May-2025
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